AM Scripture Reading: John 4.19-26

This Morning’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

PERSONALIZING WORSHIP & GETTING MORE OUT OF IT

Introduction:

1. Some background regarding the Samaritans is necessary in order to understand the discourse between Jesus and the Samaritan woman. (John 4.5-26; cf., 2 Kings 17; Ezra 4.1-3)
2. In verse 22, Jesus accurately concluded of the Samaritans at large, “You worship what you do not know…”
3. God desires that we personalize worship and make it a more meaningful experience, but this requires an investment on our part – physically, spiritually and emotionally!

PERSONALIZING WORSHIP

1. This does not mean making worship about “me.”
   1. “Worship” [proskuneō], “prostrating oneself in homage” to another; “to reverence, adore” (Strong).
   2. Worship is God-directed, not self-directed! (Matt. 4.10)
   3. God-centered worship: “in spirit and truth” (vs. 23-24).
2. What does this mean, to “worship in spirit and truth”?
   1. “Spirit” – “the disposition or influence which fills or governs the soul of anyone” (Thayer; e.g., 1 Cor. 14.15).
   2. “Truth” – “what is true in pertaining to God & the duties of man, moral & religious truth” (ibid. e.g., John 17.17).

GETTING MORE OUT OF WORSHIP

1. We must prepare ourselves for worship.
   1. The example of the Levitical priesthood. (Num. 8.21)
   2. The example of Jesus & His disciples. (Luke 22.8-9)
2. Even though the worship assembly is a collective action, acceptable worship involves personal attention.
   1. Singing – Sing out! (1 Cor. 14.15; Col. 3.16-17)
   2. Prayer – Listen to say “Amen!” (1 Cor. 14.16)
   3. Lord’s Supper – Looks in 4 directions! (1 Cor. 11.23-30)
   4. Contribution – Is planned! (1 Cor. 16.1-2; 2 Cor. 9.6-7)
   5. Preaching – Check God’s Word! (Acts 17.11)

Conclusion: What one “gets out of worship” very much depends on what one decides to invest in it. Invest wisely.